I don't initiate hugging. If they run to me to give me a hug, I give in :lol: If any student is crying, I might give them a hug (or deep pressure rubbing on the back) to help them get back on their feet. But usually I try not to since I work in a public school. Obviously little kids who look up to positive role models will want to hug! I remember my second day of subbing in a kindergarten class. I got trampled by hugs and I was scared!
I am not generally a hug person, but I teach toddlers so it's pretty much an integral part of the job. Being male, I was pretty much on edge when I worked in an elementary environment and definitely never initiated contact, but early childhood is a much different story. Initiating and warmly recieving hugs are somewhat integral to the job. That said, no matter how young the child, I always respect when they indicate they would like not to be touched and make sure they know that they have the right to determine what happens to their own bodies.
I get lots of hugs, all day every day. It has never bothered me and I hope a day never comes where teachers can't hug their students anymore. I teach 2nd grade and it's just their personalities at that age. Honestly, this year I get even more hugs from my last year's students (now 3rd graders). You never know, some of the kids may not get hugs at home so I see nothing wrong with it.
